Leslie Ball is a musician, songwriter, educator, actor, yoga instructor, and founder of the longest running weekly cabaret, Ball’s Cabaret. Leslie joins Joshua and Levi to discuss the first comedy album from the Smothers Brothers, The Smothers Brothers at the Purple … Continue reading →

Reason Gone Mad is a companion podcast to our 2015 season! According to Groucho Marx, “Humor is reason gone mad.” Comedy Suitcase puts that quote to the test as Joshua and Levi along with special guests examine the work and influence of classic 20th century comedians. Our second episode focuses on the physical and technical innovations of Buster Keaton through lens of his brilliant two-reeler Sherlock, jr.

Kirsten Stephens, professional mime and teacher of physical comedy, sits down with Joshua and Levi to dissect and delight in Sherlock, jr. From huge, neck-breaking gags on trains to subtly sublime pantomimes, Keaton’s at his comedic and artistic best throughout this 45 minute film. This episode is a decided love fest as Kirsten, Joshua, and Levi compete to see who can find more things to appreciate. And they each share which physical gag they wish they could pull off.

Watch Sherlock, jr and tell us which of Keaton’s gags do you wish you could do?

Shanan Custer, Twin Cities comedian of some note, joins Joshua and Levi as they discuss two classic episodes of I Love Lucy, “Lucy thinks Ricky is trying to murder her” and “Lucy does a TV commercial.” Wordplay, physical comedy, a brilliant straight-man, and perfect comedy timing, I Love Lucy has it all and Joshua, Levi, and Shanan can’t get enough of it. Watch both episodes of the show if you haven’t already and then listen to this funny and delightful conversation.

Let us know in the comments if you’ve got a favorite episode of I Love Lucy and tell us if you Love Lucy.